Recognition aligns with release of new EP “Conjure This”
Southern Ontario artist gains international attention amid key career moment
COLLINGWOOD, ON — Southern Ontario singer-songwriter Shjaane Glover has earned an Honourable Mention at the International Songwriters Day Song Contest for his song “Effervescence,” marking a significant milestone as he releases his latest EP, Conjure This.
The contest drew submissions from a wide range of countries, including Norway, Taiwan, Austria, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Sweden, the United States, and across Canada. Glover’s recognition places him among a competitive international field and highlights the growing reach of his work beyond regional audiences.
The timing of the honour coincides closely with the release of both the single and six-song EP Conjure This, underscoring what appears to be a pivotal moment in the artist’s trajectory. Together, “Effervescence” and the new EP reflect a consistent creative approach rooted in emotional honesty and musical depth.
“The timing feels like more than coincidence. ‘Effervescence’ and ‘Conjure This’ are, at their core, expressions of the same creative conviction – that music can hold complexity and joy simultaneously, that resilience has a sound, and that an honest song is always worth writing.”
Industry recognition and judging process
The International Songwriters Day Song Contest runs annually from December 1 through April 2 and is evaluated by a panel of music industry professionals. The competition recognizes excellence across multiple categories, including song, lyric, and music video.
This year’s judging panel included Mike Gormley, Martin Isherwood, Brent Backhus, David Eaton, and Diana Williamson—figures with extensive experience across the global music industry. Their role is to assess submissions not by genre, but by the quality and impact of the work.
The recognition of “Effervescence” signals not only artistic merit but also the broader appeal of Glover’s songwriting, which blends introspection with accessible, emotionally resonant themes.
“Conjure This” expands sonic direction
The EP’s title track, “Conjure This,” was written during a surf trip in Nicaragua and reflects a moment of emotional contrast. The song emerged from the experience of being in a visually idyllic setting while processing difficult news from home, creating a tension that drives its lyrical and musical structure.
“The air you breathe it is real / Don’t try to change how you taste it / Or tell me how to feel / I’ll try a new vacation yeah,” Glover sings.
The track’s production, led by collaborator Craig Smith, introduces a fuller band arrangement compared to Glover’s earlier work. Contributions from drummer Jenna Applewhaite and organist Jay Stiles add rhythmic energy and tonal richness, resulting in a sound that blends indie-alternative elements with folk-rock sensibilities.
This evolution reflects a broader shift in Glover’s approach, moving from more introspective compositions toward a more expansive and layered sonic palette while maintaining the emotional clarity that defines his songwriting.
Regional roots, growing profile
Based in Collingwood, along the shores of Georgian Bay, Glover has developed a reputation for crafting music shaped by both geography and personal experience. His work often explores the intersection of atmosphere and direct emotional expression, resonating with audiences seeking authenticity in contemporary songwriting.
In addition to his recorded output, Glover is known for high-energy live performances that translate studio material into immersive experiences. His shows emphasize connection and immediacy, contributing to a steadily growing fan base.
He recently marked the release of Conjure This with a hometown performance at Side Launch Brewing and is scheduled to appear this summer at the Four Winds Music Festival on July 11.
Momentum builds for emerging Canadian artist
The combination of international recognition and new music positions Glover at a key inflection point in his career. While the Honourable Mention does not carry the top prize, it signals validation from industry professionals and increases visibility in a crowded global market.
As Canadian artists continue to seek broader exposure through digital platforms and international competitions, moments like this can serve as catalysts for further opportunities. For Glover, the alignment of recognition and release suggests a carefully built momentum that may extend beyond regional success.
With Conjure This now available and live performances scheduled through the summer, Glover’s next steps will likely determine how this recognition translates into sustained growth within Canada’s independent music sector and beyond.